The Hualapai Reservation is a Native American tribal reservation located in northwestern Arizona, USA. It covers over 1 million acres of land, including a portion of the Grand Canyon National Park. In this article, we will discuss the history behind this reservation and its connection to the national park.
The History of the Hualapai Reservation
The Hualapai people have resided in the Grand Canyon region for centuries. However, their history during the colonial era has been one of challenges and oppression. In 1883, the US government designated the reservation lands for the Hualapai people, but unfortunately, much of their land was taken away during the mid-20th century for the construction of the Grand Canyon National Park.
In 1975, the Hualapai Reservation was re-established, and it has since then served as the home for this Native American tribe.
The Connection with the Grand Canyon National Park
The Hualapai Reservation has a symbiotic relationship with the Grand Canyon National Park. It is often assumed that the national park includes the entirety of the Grand Canyon, but that is not true. Portions of the canyon fall within the reservations of the Navajo, Hualapai, and Havasupai tribes.
The Hualapai Reservation is substantial in size and encompasses over 108 miles of the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon Skywalk, one of the reservation’s biggest tourist attractions, is a glass bridge that extends 70 feet out from the canyon’s edge, offering visitors a breathtaking view of this wonder of the world.
The reservation likewise provides lodging and other recreational facilities, including horseback riding, boat rides, and helicopter tours. Visitors to the reservation are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local Hualapai culture and history, and the tribe also offers cultural tours that feature traditional foods, storytelling, and dances.
Conclusion
The Hualapai Reservation is a crucial part of the Grand Canyon region, and its relationship with the national park is one that has taken root for centuries. While the reservation offers tourism opportunities centered around the Grand Canyon’s natural beauty, it also serves as a testament to the resilience and preservation of Native American culture.